We love this question at Reflex Spinal Health as we have both chiropractors and osteopaths at our multidisciplinary centre in Reading, Berkshire. Which is better chiropractor or osteopath? If you could see me now I would have a very broad grin on my face!
At Reflex we have a team that includes chiropractors, osteopaths and massage therapists. Our TEAM is just that. We do not work as individual practitioners, tucked away in our own rooms and not communicating with each other. Instead we work as one team, and also train as a team. We hold weekly clinical training and learn from each other’s knowledge.
What is the Difference between a Chiropractor and Osteopath?
Another question we get asked a lot! Think of either profession. If you take a random selection of chiropractors from the list of registered chiropractors (all named on the General Chiropractic Counsel register) and assessed how they practiced there would be quite a range of approaches and techniques. There are many things that they have in common, such as minimal education standards and scope of practice. However, there would be a broad spectrum of specific approaches to treatment.
It is just the same with osteopaths. Again, if you need to find an osteopath they can be found registered on the site of the General Osteopathic Council. Once again there is a broad range of approaches within the profession.
At Reflex Spinal Health our approach to chiropractic and osteopathy are very similar.
A Venn Diagram of Chiropractic vs Osteopathy vs Physiotherapy
Venn Diagram – Chiropractor Osteopath Physiotherapist
There are obvious overlaps between the professions of chiropractic, osteopathy and physiotherapy. Other people may feel slightly differently, but at Reflex we see the relationship between between these three great professions as the Venn diagram shows. What are the differences, similarities and which is better chiropractor or osteopath?
The greatest overlap is between chiropractors and osteopaths, but both of these also overlap with physiotherapy. Chiropractors and osteopaths will adjust (i.e. manipulate) the spine much more than a physio, and are the most skilled professions in the world at this fantastic skill. Physiotherapists will occasionally manipulate the spine, but in a different way, and will more often utilise mobilisation and exercises to bring about change.
However, at Reflex we have you totally covered. At our centre the chiropractors and osteopaths are the primary clinicians, ably supported by our experienced therapeutic massage therapists. With this team we can ensure that the correct technique and approach is available to you. Do you need adjustments? Yes, an osteopath or chiropractor can do that, and we have a range of techniques available. Do you need soft tissue therapy? Yes, one of the massage therapy team can provide excellent care. Do you need rehabilitation exercises? Yes, any of our team can help with this.
So, Which is better chiropractor or osteopath?
You won’t get us to answer which is better, because we clearly think that both are awesome! We have a fab team at Reflex and love helping people to feel great. In fact we have many patients tell us that they end up feeling better than they have done for years, let alone get rid of the pain they had when they first came to consult us!
